The Howard Arms

The Howard Arms is our local pub, luckily only a walk away from home. We often eat there and regularly go to the monthly quiz’s, which we thoroughly enjoy. Thought it was about time I did a review … On this occasion, we went as a table of 4 for an evening meal on a Fri and booked in advance (online) as it is a very popular place. The pub was very busy and we had a nice table by the window, but sometimes the table layouts feel a little cramped, like you’re sitting on top of each other. It was a hot day outside so thankfully the 2 roaring fires weren’t on, as it can often get too hot. Really friendly staff and a great selection of things to eat, even for my vegetarian Mam. Food arrived and the presentation was excellent. I love the new plates! We all thoroughly enjoyed everything about our meals, each ordering something different. I adore the truffle & Parmesan fries or huge onion rings as a side. No room for a pud this time but we highly recommend the starters. Drinks are rather expensive (to my husbands dismay), but we absolutely love this place and always enjoy our visits here. Super selection of food on the breakfast & lunch menus too

Went for an evening meal. Great service from friendly attentive staff. Thete was a good variety on the menu and the food was delicious! We had the rump of lamb and the Beef Bourginon. Both very well presented and definitely better than your average pub grub!!

We went for Sunday lunch and specifically as they do a gluten free one. Everything was very nice and tasty. Staff friendly and good value for money!

We hd a lovely one night stay here on Sunday 20th July. After a very recent family funeral we felt the need to get away and have a change of scenery from home. There was a 6Oth birthday party happening in the restautant and bar when we arrived which was so lively and full of fun it was a joy to see behold! Checked into the room which was great, up at the top, very well equipped, tastefully decorated. Having never been to Brampton before we planned to look around and find somewhere to eat for later but the choices were few and far between; plenty of take aways but the Hotel stricly forbids bringing take out food into rooms ( fair enough really) , so using them was not an option. In the end, despite the busy-ness we managed to get a table in the hotel and eat there later on; in fact the staff got us in earlier than originally booked which was really kind and helpful. Brampton has a few places of interest to see and we walked to the top of the Moat/ Motte ( amazing views) as well as going for a jar in the Shoulder of Mutton over the road. Everyone was really friendly and the whole atmosphere in the town was lively and happy that afternoon/ evening. Food in the restaurant was delicious , a wee bit pricey perhaps £18.95 for fish and chips, but it was one of the best I have had for a lone time. The room was a bit hot over night, it was a hot sticky night anyway though. Breakfast in the morning was fantastic! I had the crushed avocado and poached eggs, they were amazing. Again the staff were chatty and friendly and overall we were really glad we had booked and stayed. It was very reasonable too at £110 for a double room with ensuite ( fab shower!) and breakfast. The car park at the back is free which meant after checking out we could go and see the gorgeous stained glass windows in St Martin's Church down the road and we ended the trip with an excellent visit to Geltsdale RSPB nature reserve. Highly recommended.

One night stopover whilst walking Hadrians Wall - a short taxi ride off the route but so pleased as this was a great place to stay. Brampton is a nice town and the Howard Arms seems to cater well for both locals, hikers and other tourists alike. Limited number of room which were comfortable for those with aching legs. This is a period building so don’t expect bedroom layout to match a city centre hotel box. The landlord and landlady have clearly worked hard to build a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Food was excellent and the attentiveness of the waiting staff was clearly something that is given high priority even at busy times. Good choice of local beers from Thwaites with landlord happy to allow sampling.

Room was clean and comfortable. Service was excellent in the bar. I did not personally eat but the people I was with did and they said the food was great